Chichester Cathedral

Days out by train

by Pat Langford

April 2024

Keeping a low carbon footprint is an important factor for a growing band of travellers. If you like the idea of having a great day out from London to some of the beautiful sights of Sussex, without using a car or coach, here are some ideas for ‘Days Out by Train’.

  1. Brighton –   the 10th most-visited city in the UK, Brighton has a fascinating history which contributes to its vibrant atmosphere.  Royal scandals, unique architecture, the piers, the fabulous independent shops, all combine to make this a really fun place to visit. Enter a former Royal Palace, or maybe try out the UK’s longest seafront zipwire.  Choices for a great day out here are endless.
  2. Chichester – a longer journey from London, but only by another 30 minutes. With its Roman remains, Georgian streets, one of the UKs finest modern art galleries, a Cathedral packed with art and some peregrine falcons circling about, Chichester is one of England’s loveliest cities. It’s small so you’ll still have plenty of time to eat in one of the fine restaurants there.
  3. Rye – After only an hour and 9 minutes (with one change) you can get from London to the ‘Ancient Town’ of Rye, whose streets are often unchanged from the 14th century. This really is a place where you can step back in time. Climb the church tower for spectacular views of a coastline that has shifted miles over the centuries. Visit The Mermaid Hotel and the street in which it stands and hear about the Smugglers who once controlled so much trade in this area. Rye is an absolute gem.
  4. Lewes – a speedy 1 hour and 2 minutes from London gets you to the Town that claims to be the birthplace of democracy  and where everything goes just a little bit mad in November. Hear about the 14th century battles, the Englishman who shaped the American constitution and the annual fiery parades. Lewes is fiercely proud of its rebellious history.
  5. East Grinstead –  one of the best days out by train for Railfans. Skip from the mainline station which you have reached in an hour from London and climb aboard one of the beautifully restored steam trains on the Bluebell Railway. Admire all the different eras captured at the stations then get out at Sheffield Park and go and look at one of Sussex’s most beautiful National Trust Gardens before doing it all in reverse.
  6. Seaford  –  An hour and 34minutes from London (change at Lewes) takes you to the start of a simply glorious walk from Seaford Head up onto the South Downs Way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Cuckmere Haven, the Seven Sisters, Birling Gap and Beachy Head.  Finish in Eastbourne with a stroll along the elegant seafront, afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel and then the direct train back to London.

To make your day even better, take a look at our Guide Listing to find a qualified Blue Badge Guide to meet and accompany you on your next “Day Out by Train” to South East England.

Pat Langford recently qualified as a fully trained SE England Blue BadgeTourist Guide based in Sussex. She is also a qualified City of London guide